Obituary of James A. De Matteo

James De Matteo, 61, of Bulls Head, Staten Island, NY passed away on May 14, 2022. Born in Coney Island Hospital to William and Winifred Riley, he was one of six children. James and his wife Joanne were childhood friends who later reconnected at 22 years old. They fell in love and got married at St. Ephrem’s Church in Brooklyn, NY on July 28, 1985. They moved to Staten Island in 1988 where they bought their first home in Westerleigh. James successfully owned & operated three businesses during his 30-year career on Wall Street, where he worked as a financial advisor, property manager, and in commercial real estate. He was a survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Raised as an army brat, he was geared to jump into action and saved countless lives as a first responder. Together James and Joanne raised three children James, Dominique, Nicholas, and one furry baby Snowy. He watched his family expand with his daughter’s marriage to Antonio Gaglione and his son’s engagement to Tiffany Alvino. On March 27, 2021 he became a first-time grandpa to Antonio Matteo. James enjoyed spending time with his family and was an avid sports fan who also loved teaching his son Nicholas how to cook his favorite recipes. He was well known in the neighborhood, always had a cheerful smile, and had a witty sense of humor. Many considered him a loyal friend, coach, and mentor. He will always be remembered as the rock of his family and a truly amazing man. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home Inc., 2508 Victory Blvd. on Tuesday, 5/24/2022, departing at 10:15 AM. Funeral Mass will be held in Blessed Sacrament R.C. Church at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow in Moravian Cemetery. Family and friends may visit on Sunday, 5/22/2022 and Monday, 5/23/2022 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM and 7:00 to 9:00 PM.